Locking Pliers With Dynamic Jaw Clamping Under High Torque
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing locking pliers often lack sufficient clamping force, especially when subjected to high torques, leading to potential slipping on workpieces.
Innovation Solution
The design incorporates a locking mechanism with a link member and a spring system that allows the movable jaw to become 'energized' by rotating in response to external force, increasing the clamping force on the workpiece.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Force
If traditional locking pliers design is used, then the structure is simple, but the clamping force is insufficient under high torque conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the dynamics principle by making the lower jaw movable relative to the first jaw through a pivot connection, allowing it to rotate and become energized in response to external forces. This dynamic capability enables the jaw to automatically increase clamping force when subjected to high torque or slipping conditions, resolving the contradiction between maintaining simple structure and achieving sufficient clamping force under varying load conditions.
2Force
If the movable jaw is added to increase clamping force, then the clamping force is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies segmentation by dividing the jaw system into two distinct segments: a first jaw fixed to the first handle and a second (lower) jaw pivotally coupled to the first jaw. This segmentation allows the lower jaw to independently rotate and energize in response to external forces, providing enhanced clamping force capability while maintaining a relatively simple overall structure through modular component design.
3Force
If the link member is used to connect jaws, then the clamping force is enhanced, but the ease of operation is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the intermediary principle by introducing a link member as a mediator between the first jaw and the second jaw. This link member facilitates the transmission of motion and force while allowing the lower jaw to pivot and energize. The link member acts as an intermediate element that enables the complex motion required for enhanced clamping force without directly complicating the user's opening and closing operation.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The mechanism enhances the pliers' ability to resist slipping on workpieces at higher applied torques by dynamically increasing the clamping force in response to external forces.
Implementation Method 1
The design incorporates a locking mechanism with a link member and a spring system that allows the movable jaw to become 'energized' by rotating in response to external force
Implementation Method 2
a second jaw pivotally coupled to the first jaw, and a second handle pivotally coupled to the second jaw
Implementation Method 3
The mechanism enhances the pliers' ability to resist slipping on workpieces at higher applied torques by dynamically increasing the clamping force
Data Source
AI summary
A hand tool including a first jaw, a first handle fixed to the first jaw, a second jaw, and a second handle pivotally coupled to the second jaw. The hand tool further includes a link member having a first end pivotally coupled to at least one selected from the group of the first jaw and the first handle, and a second end pivotally coupled to the second jaw.